PAKISTAN ELECTIONS

Commonwealth observers call for patience as Pakistan awaits final election results

epa11142282 Chair of the Commonwealth Observer Group (COG), Nigeria's former president Dr Goodluck Ebele Jonathan (R) talks with journalists during a press conference about the group's preliminary findings on the Pakistani general election, in Islamabad, Pakistan, 10 February 2024. The COG has released its preliminary findings on Pakistan's 2024 general elections, highlighting both commendable efforts and challenges faced during the electoral process. The group acknowledged the significant work and preparations by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), despite delays and security concerns. They noted improvements in the legal framework and voter turnout, but also raised issues such as gender disparities in candidate lists, biased media coverage and disruptions of campaigning. Observations on election day included commendations for polling staff professionalism and efforts to include vulnerable groups, as well as concerns about internet shutdowns and the processing of results. The COG called for patience and adherence to dispute resolution mechanisms as results are finalized, and emphasized the importance of upholding democratic principles in post-election efforts. The COG was deployed at the invitation of the ECP to observe and assess all aspects of the pre-election environment, election day activities and the post-election period. EPA/SOHAIL SHAHZAD 42784

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